Blewett Pass reopens, Labor Mountain Fire remains active

BLEWETT PASS — After closing for over two weeks due to the actively burning Labor Mountain Fire, Blewett Pass reopened to travel with a pilot car on Oct. 7.

US-97 is reopened between the junction of US-97 and SR-970 and the intersection of Ingalls Creek Road, south of the Don Senn Memorial Interchange. A pilot car and reduced speed zone will be in place between Upper Tronson Creek Road and Ingalls Creek Road (milepost 178 to 165) as fire response efforts remain ongoing.

As the Labor Mountain Fire continues to burn in the area, firefighters will continue to use shoulders and pull outs for equipment staging and operations. Some areas remain under evacuation notice, and many U.S. Forest Service campgrounds and trailheads in the Wenatchee River and Cle Elum Districts remain closed due to the fire. 

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) advises travelers to plan for delays and longer than normal travel times driving through the area; for the safety of the public and first responders, drivers should never attempt to pass or turn off the road when following a pilot car. Drivers should remain alert for crews and vehicles entering and exiting the roadway. 

WSDOT warns that travel conditions can change quickly due to fire activity, with the pass potentially closing again on short notice for multiple reasons. Travelers are advised to check WSDOT’s real time travel map for current conditions and be prepared with alternative travel plans.

The Labor Mountain Fire, which began Sept. 1, is near 40,000 acres and 10 percent containment. US-97 over Blewett Pass has been closed due to the fire since Sept. 21.

Taylor Caldwell: 509-433-7276 or taylor@ward.media